Keep your heating in tip top condition throughout warmer months
Heating firm Stevenson Heating Ltd has issued its advice on how householders can protect their heating during the warmer spring and summer months, to ensure it stays in tip-top condition when needed again in the autumn and winter.
MD, Andy Oliver, says: "People are tempted to turn their heating off completely when warmer weather arrives, and then forget about it until cold weather returns. We advise them not to do that, as it's not good for the overall condition of their heating system and could lead to problems later on. Most people know that using their car regularly and having it serviced keeps it running well; the same thing applies to their heating system."
Here are Stevenson's top tips on keeping heating systems in working order:
1. Don’t turn your heating off completely in spring
While you may be tempted to turn your heating off completely in spring, some valves may stick if they’re not used. And you won’t know there’s a problem until you switch it back on when you really need it later in the year.
Be sure to run your heating at least once a week during the warmer months. Just a few minutes will do, first thing in the morning.
2. Keep radiator values open
During warmer months, while your heating is off, keep all your radiator valves open and turn up the thermostats (if you have them on your radiators) to maximum. This will stop them sticking when you are using your heating fully in the autumn and winter.
3. Have your heating serviced in summer
An annual service is the best way to ensure your heating system remains in tip-top condition. But don’t be tempted to wait until the start of the winter before having yours serviced.
A service in June or July is the ideal time to rectify any problems that have occurred during warmer months and means your heating will be working properly when you really need it.
4. Turn down your hot water to save energy
Did you know you can turn down the temperature your hot water is heated to? You might want a piping hot shower or bath in the winter, but during spring and summer, turning your hot water down a degree or two will help cut your fuel bills. And because it’s warmer, you won’t really notice the difference in your bath or shower.
Simply adjust your boiler controls to alter the temperature. The water temperature will normally be set at 65 degrees but you can turn it down to 60 degrees in warmer months.
5. Protect your family with a carbon monoxide alarm
Carbon monoxide is the silent killer. You can’t see it or smell it. We recommend you have a carbon monoxide alarm fitted in each room where you have a gas appliance.
For more information on how Stevenson Heating Ltd can help with heating installations, repairs or servicing, contact them on 020 8462 8822 or visit www.stevensonheating.co.uk.
ENDS